The Language of Light: Bringing Paintings to Life

Instructor: Katherine Cook, Artist

Light is what gives a painting life. When an artist learns to truly see how light moves across form, their paintings begin to fee dimensional, luminous and alive.

In this workshop, students will focus on developing the essential skill of observing and understanding light. Through demonstrations and guided instruction, we will explore how light reveals structure, creates value relationships and defines the form of objects.

Students will learn how to simplify what they see, organize light and shadow patterns, and translate those observations into confident brushwork.  By knowing what to look for, learning to see clearly, painters gain the tools needed to create convincing form and bring vitality to their work.

Working from life we will explore practical methods for building a painting step by step so that the subject feels solid, harmonious and full of light. This workshop is designed to strengthen both observational skills and confidence.

Students of all levels are welcome. Limited space – 8 students max.

Materials list:

Paints ( oil colors )
Students are encouraged to bring a simple, limited palette to include:

• TItanium White
• Ivory black
• Cadmium yellow light
• Cadmium red light
• Alizarin Crimson
• Ultramarine Blue
• Burnt Sienna

Students may bring additional colors if the prefer, but a limited palette is encouraged.

Brushes

• Flats and filberts ( sizes 2 – 10) bristle or synthetic
• a few smaller brushes for details work

Surface

• Oil painting panels  ( 6 X 6”, 5 X 7”, 8 x 10” or 9 x 12” ) bring several
• Not necessary to pre-tone

Palette

• Whatever you normally use. I use a glass palette
• Palette knife

Painting medium and solvents

• odorless mineral spirits or gamsol in a small container with lid.
• painting medium of choice such as linseed oil, walnut oil, or a prepared medium

Other supplies

• paper towels ( we will have on hand)
• pencil for initial drawing
• sketchbook or paper
• baby wipes